The city has offered another glimpse into what the future of outdoor recreation might look like in Thorold after a group working to establish the town park standards held a presentation on Tuesday night.
The presentation was held after a survey had made the rounds in the city, asking locals about color preferences of park benches, design choices for seating areas, ideas for what a dog park should look like, and more.
The latter, dog parks, might become reality in the next year as the city is looking for options where residents can bring their four-legged family members.
While no location has been determined, the city is leaning towards double entry gates, 5 ft. fencing, a designated small dog area, and dog bag dispensers.
Features like leash posts, accessible seating, water bowls, rocks, and logs for climbing are also being considered for dog parks.
The park standards also include adult fitness concepts that the city is looking to include in multiple parks.
Aspiring to meet the needs of all fitness abilities, the Park Standards-group is considering a handful of equipment types, ranging from senior- and all-around friendly, to obstacle- or parkour courses.
Curtis Dray, Thorold's manager of community services said the equipment could be installed in more than one park.
"Where it makes sense, we will be looking at it. Once we figure out the layout, and how much equipment, it will guide us where to put them," said Dray during the meeting.
Another revelation during the meeting was the likely design of the park signs in Thorold, which are suggested to change into a more heritage-like design with stone framing.
The survey that was sent out, and answered by 175 people, suggested gray stone was the color and material of choice to replace the current simplistic blue signs.
Dray said the city is looking for something that is low-maintenance but stays true to the city's aesthetic.
The current suggestion is a light-reflecting material in white or gold, that will naturally pick up headlights and streetlights.
"Another method we are exploring is to see if it is possible to get lights through solar panels."
Two parks are slated to be redone this year; Merritt Meadows, and the Battle of Beaverdams Park.
The Park Standards-project is currently in its second-final step and will be completed in May, and later passed on to city council for further action.